By Vince Robinson
Presented by Lakewood’s Beck Center for the Arts, August Wilson’s “Jitney” is a captivating portrayal of life in Pittsburgh’s Hill District in 1970, brought to life by local actors under the direction of Cleveland’s Jimmie Woody. The play premiered on April 5.
August Wilson is one of America’s most cherished African American playwrights, renowned for his poignant narratives that intricately depict the complexities of Black life. Set against the backdrop of a makeshift taxi company, “Jitney” follows the struggles of a group of Black men as they strive to earn a livelihood. The owner, Jim Becker, portrayed by the seasoned Karamu Alum Daryl Tatum (known for “Fences”), finds his business in jeopardy as his son Booster (played by Patrick D. Warner) returns home after a 20-year prison sentence for murder.
The ensemble cast skillfully navigates the personal tribulations of their characters amidst the bustling activity inherent to their clandestine operation. Against the backdrop of a rotary dial telephone atop a prominent wooden desk, the tales of triumph and tragedy unfold, culminating in an unexpected finale.
Tatum’s portrayal of the steadfast and community-minded Becker anchors the production, while Aamar-Malik Culbreath shines in his debut as the resilient Youngblood, a Vietnam War veteran striving to rebuild his life. Bryant Lyles delivers a compelling performance as Turnbo, juxtaposed against Thailand Hodge’s portrayal of Rena, Youngblood’s conflicted partner.
Royce Ruffin embodies the suave yet troubled Fielding, whose penchant for alcoholism contrasts with his impeccably styled wardrobe. Kym Williams captivates as Shealy, a slick numbers runner who conducts business amidst the chaos of the office. Pete Robinson brings depth to the role of Doub, providing a steady presence amid the conflicts between Turnbo and Youngblood.
Greg White rounds out the ensemble as Philmore, a patron of the taxi service whose sporadic appearances offer insights into the community dynamics. Warner’s portrayal of Booster, haunted by past transgressions, catalyzes the play’s climactic events, showcasing the rising talent of this promising actor.
“Jitney” captivates audiences with its dynamic pacing and compelling narrative underscored by a meticulously crafted set. Director Jimmie Woody’s curated soundtrack, featuring hits from the 70s, enhances the immersive experience, inviting viewers to journey through moments of tension and joy. As the final curtain falls, audiences are left with a profound sense of gratitude for the theater’s storytelling, providing both a glimpse into history and a reflection on the Black experience in America.
The production runs through May 5 in the Studio Theater of Beck Center for the Arts.
August Wilson’s legacy as one of America’s foremost African American playwrights is beautifully upheld in this remarkable performance.
Vince Robinson, based in Cleveland, Ohio, is an artist, broadcaster, photographer, and journalist.
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Bio
Vince Robinson is a multi-disciplinary artist based in Cleveland, Ohio. He took up photography as a student at Kent State University in the 70’s while studying Telecommunications with a minor in Pan African Studies. His career path took him through stints as a radio news reporter, television and radio producer/host, voiceover artist, entertainment journalist and photographer. He is the current host of Open Door, a television show he directed prior to assuming duties of host and Executive Producer.
He’s also the host of a radio version of Open Door on 95.9 FM WOVU - Cleveland, in addition to co-hosting and co-producing 360 Info Network, an African-centered radio talk show on AM1490 WERE - Cleveland.
He was the co-host and producer of Down To Business, a minority-oriented business show on WOIO-CBS 19 in Cleveland. Reflections: A Moment in Music History is a syndicated radio show that he produced, which aired on stations in Ohio’s urban markets.
His filmmaking projects have included documentaries shot in Ghana, West Africa, Israel, Egypt and Sudan in Northeast Africa. In addition to documentary films, he is a content creator of videos and podcasts via YouTube. Is current project, E(Race)Sure,
Is a documentary on the life of Winston E. Willis, a Cleveland millionaire who lost his business empire as a result of local corruption and a cover-up.
His photography has been featured in solo exhibitions at Kent State University and two exibitions at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport.
His book, Got Words? (Parablist Publishing) was published in 2015. Other books in which his writing and poetry are include The Kent Quarterly (Kent State University Press, 1977), Cleveland Poetry Scenes: A Panorama and Anthology (Bottom Dog Press, 2008) and The Journal of Traditions and Beliefs (RASHAD, 2023).
As a journalist and photojournalist, Robinson has written for several publications, Including CAN Journal, Real Deal Press, East Side Daily News, Freshwater Cleveland, Crusader Arts & Entertainment, Eschelon Magazine and African American Golfers Digest.
Robinson is the editor and primary photographer for Black Local Artists of Cleveland Kuumba, a directory of artists of different genres, funded by the Cleveland Foundation and placed in all 27 Cleveland Public Library branches.
As a musician, he leads his own group, Vince Robinson & The Jazz Poets and has performed in several local and regional venues, including the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame & Museum, Kent State University and the Cleveland area’s legendary jazz club, Nighttown.
As a performance poet, he has competed on stages of the National Poetry Slam as a member of the Cleveland Slam Team in national competitions in Chicago and St. Louis.
In addition to his artistic pursuits, he spent 27 years at State Farm Insurance in Claims and Corporate Risk & Compliance.
As an art advocate, he serves on the Board of the Assembly for the Arts, a local arts and culture advocacy and research agency tasked with creating opportunity for creatives and creative businesses.
He’s a member of the Board of Trustees for the Cleveland Jazz Orchestra.
Robinson is also a board member for Little Lumpy’s Center for Educational Initiatives. He participates in their Great Lakes African American Writer’s Conference as a co-host for nationally-televised events featuring prominently known writers. He is a former board member for Heights Arts, a Cleveland Heights non-profit arts organization.
He currently serves on an advisory committee on arts and culture for Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb and the City Planning Department.
Robinson is the owner of Larchmere Arts, an art gallery, photography studio and performance venue in Cleveland.